George Burley has urged his troops to stick together and operate as a unit ahead of tonight's clash at Elland Road.

The Ipswich boss was left dejected after his side's 'poorest performance of the season' against Southampton on Saturday.

The Blues lost 3-1 and now hover perilously close to the relegation zone, fifth from bottom in the Premiership.

Burley said: "Losing at the weekend was a major disappointment, especially considering the importance of the game.

"To get anything from the match tonight we need to keep it tight at the back and operate well as a unit.

"We need to pick ourselves up after Saturday. We're fighting for our lives and if we're to be successful it must be a collective effort."

Sixto Peralta is again sidelined because of a thigh strain. The injury also forced him to miss out against Southampton.

Jermaine Wright has been ruled out with a groin strain and Chris Makin (ankle) is doubtful, but John McGreal is back after serving a one-match suspension

Published Wednesday, March 6, 2002